Health, Australia (Commonwealth Union) – Depression is unfortunately very common and can be very disabling to manage. Despite several medications and treatments currently available, it is known that they are not necessarily effective for everyone. Ketamine, was initially analyzed in the early 1960s, found its place in medical practice as an anesthetic for both humans and animals. Its dissociative properties made it invaluable for surgical procedures, particularly in emergency situations. Over time, ketamine became a staple in the medical world, but its journey into mental health treatment began more recently.
In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers from the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) and the University of Adelaide are inviting individuals to participate in a trial of an innovative product utilizing ketamine as an alternative approach to address treatment-resistant depression.
Conducted under the auspices of the Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) and the University of Adelaide, the study focuses on evaluating a novel tablet form of the drug. This tablet gradually releases ketamine into the body, offering a potential solution for individuals who have not experienced positive outcomes with conventional depression treatments.
Despite the increasing availability of depression treatments, up to 55 percent of individuals encounter treatment-resistant depression, where existing medications fail to yield satisfactory results. Ketamine, a drug commonly used for pain relief and anesthesia, acts as a dissociative substance, influencing brain chemicals and altering the brain’s interpretation of sensory messages.
While ketamine is gaining traction as an alternative treatment for depression symptoms, current administration methods can result in sporadic uptake, potentially leading to rapid and unpleasant side effects. Illicitly, ketamine is also encountered in a hallucinogenic white powder form.
The proposed slow-release ketamine tablet aims to mitigate the drawbacks associated with existing treatments. By avoiding rapid peaks and minimizing associated discomfort, such as drowsiness, disorientation, and fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate, the new product represents a promising advancement.
Having successfully cleared initial volunteer trials for safety, the slow-release ketamine tablet is poised for the next phase of research in South Australia. The RAH is now seeking volunteers aged 18 and over who have previously tried conventional antidepressant medications without success, inviting them to participate in this innovative trial.
Professor Guy Ludbrook of CALHN indicated that Depression is unfortunately prevalent and can pose significant challenges in terms of management. Despite the availability of various medications and treatments, it’s evident that not all individuals respond positively.
While the existing use of ketamine in treatment is considered safe when accompanied by proper care and ongoing psychiatric support, our studies indicate that the ‘slow-release’ approach we are currently investigating significantly reduces the risk of rapid and unpleasant side effects.
We are now entering a compelling phase in the development of this drug, actively seeking individuals to participate in our study, particularly those who have not experienced effective responses to conventional antidepressants.
The trial entails participants visiting the RAH for screening and, if suitable, potentially staying overnight for the initial dose. Subsequently, the medication can be taken regularly at home over several weeks. Throughout the trial, participants will maintain consistent and close contact with our team to monitor their progress effectively.
Scott Clark of The Head of Discipline of Psychiatry at the University of Adelaide says “While there are some clinics nationwide offering ketamine treatment for depression, the University of Adelaide in partnership with CALHN, is trialling for the first time in the world a ‘slow release’ tablet, which releases the drug gradually into the body, reducing adverse effects.”
“Current formulations of ketamine for depression treatment require direct supervision in clinics.”
“The slow-release tablet can be taken at home similar to current antidepressant medications, with regular support from a psychiatrist.”
